Whole-Leaf Rosinweed Silphium integrifolium

Silphium is derived from the Green name silphion, referring to a plant native to northern Africa that bears resin.  Integrifolium is a plant with entire or uncut leaves.

Rosinweed is a native herbaceous perennial in the aster family found in central USA and parts of Canada. It grows along roadsides and railroad tracks, in fields, prairies, and pastures. The sunflower-like blooms occur in late summer to fall on up to 6-foot tall stems and attracts bees and butterflies. 

It typically grows to a height of 2' to 3', which is lower than other native silphiums, but can reach a height of up to 6' tall.  Its strong stems help keep this plant erect, while others may flop over.  

As the foliage ascends the plant, they will rotate around the stem by 90 degrees.  Side stems may form with small panicles of flowers.  

It is adaptable to most soil types if they are well-drained in full sun.  Some light shade is tolerated. It is drought tolerant once established. Use this plant in naturalized or native areas. It may be too weedy to use in a small garden.

Growing from a taproot and short rhizomes, it will form clumps but does not aggressive spread.

Although not a favorite of small herbivores due to the height and coarseness of the leaves, larger herbivores will eat the stems, leaves and flowers.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues.  Occasional leaf spot, rust and downy mildew.